What Does Humping Actually Mean?

This might sound dumb, but what does humping in sex really mean? My friend kind of explained it, but I still don’t get it. And what is dry humping? Thanks!

It doesn’t sound dumb! Sex terms, even the most basic ones, can be so confusing if you’ve never done them or never really learned about them. Sure, everyone talks about them casually, but if no one is explaining it, then how are you supposed to know what they’re talking about? There’s no need to apologize for your sex questions – we totally get it.

Anyway, moving on. The word “humping” is actually a slang word – the legit definition of “hump” is a bump, but when it comes to sex, it’s a little different. Humping usually refers to the act of one person thrusting their genitals on another person, which sounds uncomfortably violent when you say it that way. Think of it this way: humping is basically pushing up against another person, and then rubbing your genitals against them, using a little bit of force. When done correctly, it can feel great…. when it’s done correctly, it can feel weird.

Humping as a term can also be a reference to sex in general. There are tons of slang words for sex out there, and this is one of them. So, think of it like this: if someone says, “They’re humping,” what they mean is “They’re having sex.”

Dry humping is a little bit different. When you thinking of humping in terms of sex, it usually means the actual act of having sex – meaning both people are naked. But dry humping refers to humping with clothes on, and no penetration involved. It’s when two people are clothed, but they’re rubbing their genitals against each other’s bodies. Since they’re clothed and sex isn’t actually happening, it’s called dry humping. Make sense? Don’t think about it too hard! These are just slang terms that, in the end, aren’t super important. But hey – now you know!

What’s on your mind? Heather can help! Send her your question at heather@gurl.com